Canadian star Henoc Muamba, who has worked out for Patriots, released by CFL team to pursue NFL opportunities

The Patriots went north of the border to try and find talent last year, adding linebacker Jason Vega and defensive lineman Armond Armstead. Neither had an impact on the 2013 roster — Vega was cut, while Armstead ended the year on the reserve/non-football injury list and didn’t play a game.

Muamba, who has apparently drawn the interest of several other teams around the NFL, was the top pick of the 2011 CFL draft out of St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia. Born in Zaire, he was a CFL All-Star this past season after finishing with 106 tackles, one sack and a pick for Winnipeg. For his efforts, he won the Lew Hayman Trophy — given to the best Canadian player in the East Division.

There was some other Patriots-related news coming out of Winnipeg Wednesday, as the Blue Bombers announced they had signed former New England receiver Quentin Sims. Sims, who distinguished himself as the favorite target of Tim Tebow this past summer, had four receptions for 86 yards and two touchdowns in the 2013 preseason with the Patriots.